The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Shobnall
4.5
(642)
5,063
hikers
23
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Shobnall offer accessible green spaces and connections to the wider National Forest region. The area features well-maintained, flat paths within Shobnall Fields, ideal for leisurely family walks. Routes often incorporate picturesque canal towpaths along the Trent & Mersey Canal and extend into woodlands and unsurfaced paths within the National Forest. This landscape provides a mix of easy, gentle strolls and more varied trails with some elevation changes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Shobnall
- The…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.2
(9)
19
hikers
14.3km
03:37
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
38
hikers
9.44km
02:24
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(9)
35
hikers
10.5km
02:47
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely place for a stroll feeding the ducks coffee and cake and play area for the kids or grandkids
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This Grade II listed Aqueduct (also called "Aqueduct 23") was built in c.1770 by Mr Brindley to carry the Trent and Mersey canal over the River Dove. It has 12 shallow arches, and there is a dated keystone in the first arch on the Staffordshire side of the river.
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This bridge (also called Eggington Bridge) was bypassed when the A38 became a dual carriageway in 1926. The current bridge dates to c.15th century, though it was widened in the 17th century. An earlier structure (pre-13th century) may have existed at this site to carry the Roman Icknield Street across the river. It is now closed to all vehicle traffic.
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The brewery center closed in October 2022.
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Ferry Bridge is a pretty Victorian foot bridge over the River Trent. Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton. The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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Originally an open cast gravel pit, Branston Water Park is now hosts many species of plants and animals The reed bed is particularly important to wildlife and is one of the largest in Staffordshire.
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The Ferry Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. It was opened in 1889 and replaced a small ferry service that had run since the 13th century. It's a semi-suspension bridge and was the only one of this design to be built in Europe.
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Andresey Bridge, Burton on Trent The Andresey Bridge is a Grade II-listed (List entry Number: 1288956 LinkExternal link Historic England), elegant, single-span iron footbridge with latticed arched sides supporting the walkway. It was made in 1884 and leads across the river to Andresey Island, one of several islands formed by the River Trent which divides into several streams at this point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Shobnall?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Shobnall, offering a variety of options for different ages and abilities. This includes 6 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options for families with older children.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Shobnall?
Family hikes in Shobnall offer a mix of accessible green spaces, tranquil canal towpaths, and connections to the wider National Forest. You'll find well-maintained, flat paths in areas like Shobnall Fields, as well as more varied terrain including woodland trails and unsurfaced paths when venturing further into the National Forest.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, Shobnall Fields offers very accessible paths, including an easy 2.2-mile circuit with no elevation gain, perfect for casual walkers and strollers. For a slightly longer, easy option, consider the Shobnall Fields Canal – Tutbury and Burton Mileposts loop, which is 7.7 km with minimal elevation.
Are the family-friendly trails around Shobnall suitable for dogs?
Many of the trails around Shobnall, especially those along canal towpaths and in open park areas like Shobnall Fields, are generally dog-friendly. However, always keep dogs under control and check for any specific local restrictions, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Remember to bring water for your dog and dispose of waste responsibly.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see on these family hikes?
You can encounter various points of interest. For example, routes often incorporate picturesque canal towpaths leading towards Shobnall Marina. Longer walks might take you to Branston Water Park – The Gravs, or past the historic Ferry Bridge. Some trails also venture into woodlands like Sinai Park Wood.
Are there any circular routes for families in Shobnall?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular. For instance, the Shobnall Fields Canal – Branston Water Park loop is a moderate 11.9 km circular route. Another option is the Battlestead Hill – Sinai Woodlands loop, which is a 10.1 km moderate circular hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Shobnall?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 570 ratings. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the paths, the peaceful ambiance of Shobnall Fields, and the variety offered by combining canal walks with woodland sections, making it ideal for families.
Where can we find parking for family hikes in Shobnall?
Shobnall Fields itself includes essential amenities like parking, making it a convenient starting point. Many routes that incorporate areas like Branston Water Park or the Trent & Mersey Canal also have designated parking facilities nearby. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Shobnall?
Shobnall offers pleasant walking conditions throughout the year. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for picnics. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be crisp and refreshing. Some unsurfaced paths might be muddier after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially outside of Shobnall Fields.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the family-friendly trails in Shobnall?
While Shobnall Fields provides a tranquil setting, venturing into Burton-upon-Trent or nearby villages will offer various cafes and pubs. Routes that pass through or near Shobnall Marina or extend towards Branston Water Park might have options for refreshments along the way or nearby.
Are there any routes that connect Shobnall to other natural attractions?
Yes, several routes connect Shobnall to other natural attractions. For example, the Trent Valley Way and Branston Loop takes you towards Branston Water Park – The Gravs, offering varied scenery including waterside paths and open countryside.
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